Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh leads tributes to Jacoby Jones after his death at 40: ‘He was a light’
Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh led tributes to former NFL player Jacoby Jones following news of his passing.
On Sunday morning, an official Ravens source confirmed his passing to WJZ. The former wide receiver and kick returner was 40 years old.
While the cause of his death has not yet been released, tributes to Jones’ life and career have poured in on social media. After coaching him for three years in Baltimore, Harbaugh mourned Jones’ death shortly after the news broke.
āI loved Jacoby Jones. We all did,ā Harbaugh said in a rack. ‘His spirit, enthusiasm and love for people were powerful. He was a light. He was the cherished son of his loving mother, Ms. Emily. They were so close.’
“He was a man of faith. My favorite football play was when Jacoby was talking to his mother in the end zone, right before a late kickoff return against the Vikings in a snowstorm shootout.
John Harbaugh paid tribute to former Baltimore Ravens star Jacoby Jones after his death
An official Ravens source confirmed Jones’ death to WJZ on Sunday morning
“Jacoby then ran to catch the ball and ran it back for a touchdown. My favorite personal Jacoby moment was every time I saw his smiling face filled with joy. Rest in peace, Jacoby, in the arms of Jesus.”
The New Orleans native played a crucial role in the Ravens’ Super Bowl 47 victory over the San Francisco 49ers in 2013, throwing a 108-yard kickoff return, setting a Super Bowl record.
“We are devastated to learn of Jacoby Jones’ passing,” the Ravens team said in a statement. “Jacoby had the unique ability to connect with everyone he encountered. His charisma, joy and love created a one-of-a-kind presence that could light up any room or brighten up a dark day.
“Jacoby will be long remembered, not only for his success on the football field, but also for the lasting personal connections he made with countless people throughout the Ravens organization, the Baltimore community and every area he called home. We share our deepest condolences with Jacoby’s family as we all begin to process this devastating loss.”
Jones played three seasons in Baltimore after playing for the Texans from 2007-2011
Pat McAfee and JJ Watt paid tribute to Jones within hours of the news breaking
Jones played for the Houston Texans from 2007 to 2011 before joining the Ravens. He then played stints with the San Diego Chargers, Pittsburgh Steelers and Monterey Steel in the National Arena League.
“We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Jacoby Jones,” the Texans wrote in their statement. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.”
“Jacoby was one of the most joyful teammates and people I have ever met,” wrote JJ Watt, who joined Jones in Houston before his departure. “Always dancing and laughing, with a permanent smile on his face. Gone way too soon. RIP Jacoby Jones.”
Jones had a Super Bowl record 108-yard kickoff return against the 49ers in 2013
Jones played for the San Diego Chargers, Pittsburgh Steelers and Monterey Steel in the NAL
“Jacoby Jones was an absolute legend,” ESPN’s Pat McAfee said. “He was beloved by literally everyone he met and lit up any room/court he walked in/on. Rest in peace, my brother…we will miss your presence.”
With five First-Team All-Pro honors and five Pro Bowl selections, Jones led the NFL in sacks for two seasons and was named Defensive Player of the Year three times. Jones finished his career with 586 total tackles, 114.5 sacks, 70 pass deflections, 27 forced fumbles and 17 recoveries.
After retiring in 2017, Jones served as tight ends coach at Morgan State University.